The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) has officially opened applications for its Research Fellowship 2026, inviting young researchers from across West Africa to participate in a six-month capacity-building programme running from May to October 2026. This highly regarded fellowship is designed to strengthen research, analytical, and documentation skills while contributing to the advancement of civil society in the region.
With a strong focus on indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and conservation, the 2026 edition of the fellowship offers emerging scholars a unique opportunity to explore how traditional knowledge systems and civil society efforts can support sustainable development and climate action in West Africa.
About the WACSI Research Fellowship
WACSI was established to enhance the institutional, operational, and knowledge capacities of civil society organisations (CSOs) in West Africa. As a regional resource hub, the institute provides training, research, documentation, policy dialogue, and experience-sharing platforms that empower organised civil society actors.
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The Research Fellowship is a core part of this mission. Through a structured three-to-six-month engagement, fellows work closely with experienced professionals to examine key trends, challenges, and opportunities affecting civil society in the region. Participants gain hands-on research experience while contributing to ongoing projects and publications.
The programme not only builds technical research skills but also fosters professional networking, policy engagement, and collaboration between academia and civil society actors.
2026 Research Focus: Indigenous Knowledge, Biodiversity, and Conservation
The 2026 fellowship prioritises the documentation of indigenous knowledge systems within the biodiversity and conservation sector. Indigenous knowledge refers to the traditional practices, innovations, beliefs, and systems passed down through generations within local communities.
This year’s fellows will explore how these knowledge systems can:
- Strengthen environmental conservation efforts
- Support climate change advocacy
- Inform civil society programming
- Enhance community-driven development strategies
Applicants are particularly encouraged to examine how CSOs can leverage indigenous knowledge to improve advocacy outcomes and foster sustainable environmental practices.
Key Research Themes
While biodiversity and conservation remain central, WACSI welcomes applications addressing related civil society themes, including:
- Leadership and governance in civil society organisations
- Technology for development
- Resource mobilisation strategies
- Civil society sustainability
- Working practices and internal systems
- Human resource management
- Enabling environments for CSOs
- Community engagement models
- Equitable partnerships between West African CSOs and donors
- Capacity strengthening within the region
Successful candidates must clearly demonstrate how their chosen topic connects to biodiversity, conservation, or broader civil society development.
Eligibility Criteria
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is open to young researchers from:
- Ghana
- Guinea Conakry
- Liberia
- Nigeria
- Senegal
Applicants must:
- Demonstrate strong analytical and independent research skills
- Show clear relevance between their proposed topic and biodiversity/conservation
- Be fluent in English and/or French
- Be interested in strengthening their research capabilities
Current staff of organisations participating in biodiversity-related capacity-strengthening programmes are encouraged to apply. However, researchers outside these organisations are also welcome.
Fellowship Benefits
Participants in the WACSI Research Fellowship gain access to extensive academic and professional development opportunities. Key benefits include:
- Publication opportunities on a globally recognised civil society research platform
- Production of at least one publishable research output (Issue Paper, Op-Ed, or blog article)
- Dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals
- Monthly stipend and research allowance
- Contribution to a WACSeries publication
- Free access to WACSI publications
- Participation in promoting good practices across West Africa
Beyond financial support, fellows gain practical exposure to civil society dynamics and policy discussions, positioning them for long-term career advancement in research, development, and advocacy.
Fellowship Deliverables
Selected fellows will be expected to:
- Contribute to ongoing or commissioned research at WACSI
- Publish at least one article highlighting best practices, case studies, or success stories within the biodiversity and conservation sector
These outputs will contribute to strengthening knowledge documentation across West Africa.
Fellowship Timeline
The application and selection process follows this schedule:
- 23 February 2026: Applications open
- 13 March 2026: Application deadline
- 27 March 2026: Shortlisted applicants notified
- 02 April 2026: Interviews conducted
- 09 April 2026: Final selection feedback
- 04 May 2026: Fellowship begins
Applicants are advised to submit their materials well before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
Application Requirements
Interested candidates must submit:
- A motivation letter specifying their preferred duration and research theme
- A current curriculum vitae (CV)
- A one-page research synopsis outlining how they will meet fellowship deliverables
- A sample of an authored article or published work (if available)
All applications must be submitted via email before 13 March 2026.
Why Apply for the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026?
The WACSI Research Fellowship provides more than academic training—it offers a platform for meaningful impact. By bridging the gap between research and civil society practice, the fellowship cultivates professionals who understand both theoretical frameworks and grassroots realities.
Past fellows have highlighted the value of mentorship, skill development, and exposure to real-world research projects. Many participants have gone on to strengthen their careers in policy, civil society leadership, and environmental advocacy.
If you are a young researcher passionate about biodiversity, conservation, and strengthening civil society in West Africa, this fellowship represents a powerful opportunity to refine your expertise while contributing to regional development.
For more information, visit the WACSI Research Fellowship.
